This trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the Aspen area. Hikers and picnickers enjoy the wildflowers and views of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. A great family day hike with many photographic opportunities. The trail starts at the Maroon Lake parking area traversing through a meadow to the far end of Maroon Lake to a Forest Service bulletin board. Take the trail to the left. There are several bridges crossing the creek. The trail skirts around an active beaver pond and loops back to Maroon Lake.

Directions: From Aspen, Drive 1/2 mile west of Aspen on Highway 82 and turn left onto Maroon Creek Road at the roundabout. Keep right and continue 9 1/2 miles to the Maroon Lake Parking Area.From mid-June through September, the Maroon Creek Road is closed from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and you will need to take a shuttle bus from Ruby Park in Aspen. The bus includes an informative guided tour of the valley. Contact the Roaring Fork Transit Agency at 925-8484 for more information.

Elevation: 9,580 feet

Ending Elevation: 9,700 feet

Elevation Gain: 120 feet

Distance: 1 1/2 miles

Usage: Very Heavy

Difficulty: Easy

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